Ahead of the Curve

Author: Elizabeth Kellar

New Ways to Say “I Love You”

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Sweet hearts Few flirtations last as long or are as passionate as the one many of us enjoy with chocolate. If your sweetheart has a sweet tooth, Norman Love Confections is presenting a line of handmade, heart-shaped Valentine’s Day chocolates and truffles that are sure to satisfy. Here’s a taste: “Tahitian Caramel” conceals a luscious caramel center, and a bite into “Cookies ’n’ Cream” reveals a smooth white filling. $22 to $70. 11380 Lindberg Blvd., Fort Myers. 561-7125.

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Say “Spa-aah” A busy schedule has a sneaky way of sabotaging even the most robust romance. But the time required for the “Four Hands, Two Hearts” couples massage at the Golden Door Spa at the Naples Grande Beach Resort is sure to be well-spent, as you and your squeeze relax and reconnect during a private side-by-side treatment in the spa’s serene Zen-inspired surroundings. $240 for 50 minutes, and $360 for 80 minutes. 475 Seagate Drive, Naples. 594-6321.

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Sun and sandwiches Enjoy an intimate meal in a place where the view is always spectacular and reservations are never required—the beach. Tony’s Off Third has created a picnic basket for the Valentine’s Day holiday that includes succulent grilled chicken sandwiches on fresh ciabatta bread and heart-shaped sugar cookies. Finally, toast to togetherness with the basket’s red-hued stemware and bottle of “Lady in Red” wine. $80. 1300 Third St. S., Naples. 262-7999.

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LOVE life Sweet nothings are wonderful when whispered but linger so much longer when spelled out in diamonds and gold. Cartier of Naples provides the message and the medium with its signature LOVE jewelry, a collection that famously features a small screwdriver to link bearer and wearer. New designs include 18-karat white gold bracelets with diamonds and the celebrated LOVE motif. LOVE bracelet with full pavé diamonds, $51,600. Waterside Shops, 5475 Tamiami Trail N., Naples. 594-9594.

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Picture this If a picture is worth a thousand words, a picture of you or your special someone must be valuable indeed. Pose solo for a sleek and stylish portrait or schedule a sophisticated family photo at the Naples studio of Roland Scarpa, where the photographer’s skills, plus professional hair and makeup artists, work to create images that are lovely, luxurious and unquestionably romantic. Starting at $3,000. www.rolandscarpa.com.

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Dear Darling In the battle of the BlackBerrys versus the Brownings, we know where our loyalties lie: e-mail is important, but emotions are essential. If you’re apt to agree, Arabesque of Naples has the perfect tool for expressing your sentiments: the scorching red Montegrappa Miya Argento pen. Here’s hoping your words are as hot. Celluloid and sterling silver, $650. 350 Fifth Ave. S., Naples. 403-0043.

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Into the blue There’s something undeniably indulgent about a private cruise with your beloved. Trade a boat for a basket and book a hot air balloon ride with Lehigh Acres’ Gone With the Wind Balloon Company, where you’ll float over scenic Southwest Florida at sunrise, stopping to enjoy a light breakfast and—of course—a champagne toast. $225 per person, weather permitting. 369-6656.

Whether you’re always a hopeless romantic or only when a certain person is concerned, it’s likely you’re no stranger to saying those three little words. If your heart is aching for a new way to show you care, consider a little love Southwest Florida-style.